22 September 2014  United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the release of a group of Turkish nations held since June by the group, the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).

Mr. Ban “is relieved that, at the end of a three-month ordeal, they are now home safe and sound,” according to a statement from his spokesperson.

The Turkish men, women and children were released on Friday, 19 September. They had been held captive since 11 June, following the seizure by the terrorist group of the Turkish Consulate in Mosul.

In today’s statement, Mr. Ban reiterated his call for the immediate release of all hostages in the region.

He also reminded parties that kidnapping is a gross violation of human rights and humanitarian law.

Earlier this month, the Security Council today strongly condemned attacks by ISIL and other terrorist organizations. The 15-member Council urged Member States to assist the Iraqi Government’s efforts to combat militants and implement its new political agenda.